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They said: ‘People in need of help often refrain from asking because they believe others will not grant their request, or because they believe it could signal their incompetence.

‘But this study demonstrated requesting a favour can increase attraction by conveying the desire to form affectionate relationships.’

Consultant clinical psychologist Dr Sally Austen, from Dudley in the West Midlands, said being asked to do someone a favour signifies that you are trusted and likeable.

Helpful: The scientists said the findings, published in the Journal of Social Psychology, suggest openly seeking favours galvanises friendships rather than undermining them – as long as it is in moderation (file photo)

He said: ‘Although the favour may be an imposition our time, as long as it is not excessive, it offers a generosity of trust and flattery.

‘If I am running late and ask someone to pick up my children from school I am saying that I trust them to care for my children, to drive safely and to like me despite my poor time organisation.

‘As long as the requests for favours are then broadly equal and alternate, the shared relationship moves from acquaintance to friend.

‘But abuse of the subtle social rules that underpin the use of favours can also wreck friendships.’